Ground turkey and pasta casserole

Ground turkey and pasta casserole combines savory ground turkey with pasta, aromatic herbs, and melted cheese for a hearty family meal. This one-pot dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting dinner.

27 Nov 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 cup onion
1 cup carrots
1 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp red pepper (spice)
1 lb ground turkey
3.50 cup chicken broth
3 tbsp basil
2 tbsp canned tomato paste
1 tbsp vinegar
12 oz macaroni
2 cans canned tomatoes
4 oz mozzarella cheese
3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese

Ground turkey and pasta casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that's perfect for a family dinner. It combines the rich flavors of ground turkey, aromatic herbs, and melty mozzarella cheese with the comforting texture of pasta, resulting in a wholesome meal. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

3. Cook Garlic and Spices:
- Add the minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the skillet.
- Stir and cook for an additional 1 minute, until the spices are fragrant.

4. Brown Ground Turkey:
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until the turkey is browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

5. Add Liquids and Tomato Paste:
- Pour in the 3.5 cups of chicken broth.
- Stir in the 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 tablespoon of vinegar.
- Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Add Pasta and Tomatoes:
- Add the 12 ounces of macaroni pasta to the skillet.
- Pour in the 2 cans of diced tomatoes (including the liquid).
- Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is almost cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Add Fresh Basil and Cheese:
- Stir in the 3 tablespoons of fresh chopped basil.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

8. Bake:
- Transfer the skillet or Dutch oven to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Add Parmesan:
- After baking, remove from the oven and sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese over the top.

10. Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy!

This ground turkey and pasta casserole is a comforting and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With a blend of savory turkey, rich tomatoes, and cheesy goodness, it's a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Enjoy this casserole on a cozy evening with family or friends and bask in the satisfying flavors of home-cooked goodness.

Ground turkey and pasta casserole FAQ:

What is the best baking time for this casserole?

Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How do I know when the ground turkey is fully cooked?

The ground turkey is fully cooked when it is no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It should be browned and crumbled during cooking.

Can I substitute the macaroni with another type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute macaroni with other short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted according to the pasta type used.

How should I store leftovers of the casserole?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or use water mixed with a bouillon cube for a similar flavor profile.

Cooking Tips:

- Use a large skillet or pot to ensure even cooking and sufficient space for all ingredients.

- For a deeper flavor, sauté the onions and carrots until they start to caramelize before adding the other ingredients.

- If you prefer more spice, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

- Cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook when baked with the other ingredients, preventing it from becoming too mushy.

- Fresh basil can be used in place of dried basil for a more vibrant flavor.

- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking so it can set and is easier to serve.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 530kcal
Protein 50g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 10g
Sugar 12g
Fat 22g

Ground turkey and pasta casserole